Bridging the Gap: Enabling Equal Access to Biomarker Cancer Testing and Clinical Trials for Black Patients

Advancements in biomarker testing, clinical research and targeted th­­erapies offer personalized treatment plans that can improve patient health outcomes, but Black patients with cancer often do not have access to these breakthroughs in cancer care. Some of the barriers faced by many Black patients with cancer include lack of insurance coverage, medical biases, medical mistrust and lack of awareness. In particular, this survey found that the main barriers were, in fact, a mistrust in the medical system, a fear for safety and a concern about being a “guinea pig” a test subject for unproven therapies without their knowledge or consent. 

How your employees can quit smoking and help reduce COPD risk

Learn about the impact and causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). And, as the Great American Smokeout approaches on Nov. 21, see how a wellness coach can assist with a smoking cessation program.

Empowering patients with breast cancer to talk to their oncologist about HER2 status

From family history to preventive action: How genetic testing empowered a mother-daughter journey with breast cancer risk

Jen Black’s journey with genetic testing for hereditary cancer started with an itch. It wasn’t a literal impulse to scratch; it was an urge to be proactive about her health due to her family history of cancer.

Three ways to strengthen the immune system

What if instead of referring to the next few months as flu season, we reframed our perspective and referred to this time as immune system empowerment season? While it doesn’t necessarily roll off the tongue, it certainly represents a more proactive and action-oriented approach in fighting off many of the illnesses associated with fall weather. 

How eating healthy food can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer

September not only marks the official end of summer but also the beginning of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. While it experienced a decline in the early and mid-2000s, prostate cancer has had a resurgence in recent years.

How a patient with dermatomyositis adjusted to a life without the sun

For Cindy Singleton, an IT product manager at Labcorp, being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease forever changed the way she lives. "The most difficult thing is not being able to go out in the sun," she said. "I was a very outdoorsy person before; I used to show horses. Now I stay inside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m." Singleton first started noticing symptoms about six years ago. She developed Raynaud's syndrome, which caused her hands to turn blue and lose circulation. Soon after, an itchy rash appeared all over her body. For months, her doctor thought it was just dermatitis. But when Singleton visited her dermatologist for her annual check-up, the dermatologist recognized the distinctive rashes as a sign of something more serious. A biopsy confirmed dermatomyositis, and Singleton was prescribed creams to help manage the itching."I'd never heard of it before," Singleton said. "It was all new to me."  

“It was pretty much hell for a year”: A Labcorp employee’s journey with dermatomyositis

When a rash first appeared on Donna Carter's forehead in the summer of 2021, she thought little of it. Assuming it was just a reaction to a new skin cream, Carter consulted a telehealth doctor who prescribed some topical treatments. But as weeks passed, the rash persisted. 

Three wellness tips to prepare your family for a healthy school year

The latter part of summer can be bittersweet. While many parents and families are still enjoying fun outdoor activities and sunshine, they’re also preparing for the inevitable: going back to school. It’s an exciting time for families ready to return to the comfort of a predictable routine. As part of your preparation, be sure to get your kids ready to start the school year off right by settling into a good wellness routine under these three pillars.

Five tips for healthy grilling this summer

Summer is in full swing and it’s time to enjoy the benefits of the season. Cooking and eating outdoors are popular options for parties, holidays, social gatherings, events or just plain fun. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association’s 2023 State of the Barbecue survey, grilling out continues to grow in popularity. Approximately 80% of all homeowners and 70% of U.S. households own a grill and/or smoker, up from 64% in 2019. And 35% own two grills or more.